Overview

For as long as toothache has plagued humankind, so long has Dentistry, however crude and primitive its form, existed. Through the ages, the traditional image of the dentist has evolved, from the kindly relative, dispensing home remedies to alleviate pain, to the local barber or blacksmith, preparing to extract the offending tooth, to the modern professional we know today. 

Dentistry in the present day is concerned with all health problems afflicting the mouth and teeth. Its skill is no longer applied only in times of emergency, but is now accepted as a scientifically founded professional field of great significance to public health, and includes dental care and correction.

MAIN AREAS OF WORK

PRIVATE PRACTICE

Dentistry is a lucrative profession, and many dentists prefer to be in private practice, as it provides
the best financial prospects as well as greater independence. Private practitioners work either alone, often setting up a clinic on their own premises, or in partnership with colleagues, sharing resources and overheads. 

HOSPITALS

Dentists also work in hospitals, under the designation of Dental Surgeon. This could either be in a general hospital, as part of the Government Medical Corps; with one of the services, like the Railways or the Military; or even a company or private hospital.